Meet Crescendo Ward | Producer and Writer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Crescendo Ward and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Crescendo, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
For me, it was a natural progression. At sixteen, I started out as a street dancer. Years later, I became an actor and choreographer. My career is both funny and long. Besides my film and dance career, I starred in two television series: The Wolfman Jack Show and FTV, a comedy music video show. I had two record deals, one with MCA Records, and I can’t sing. However, because I was a good dancer, the producer went with it.

Another funny aspect of my career is that I never really had a good agent, except for my first commercial agent. Other than that, on almost every major job I got in a film or TV show, I had to bogart my way into the audition, much to the disapproval of my agents. But it was frustrating that my agents didn’t know what to do with me. After I would book the job, I would ask them, “Why didn’t you send me out for that role?” And they would sometimes say, “The call was for an all-American look.” And I would say, “I was born here.”

Then it started to hit me, and I knew had to learn how to be a producer and began producing events. Notice I didn’t say director because, as a producer, I can always direct if I choose to. I always had a talent for organizing and seeing the bigger picture. In the 1990s, I tried to get TV producers to see the enormous potential of street dance culture, with no success. So, I decided to do it myself. In 2000, as the street dance culture began to be recognized by pop culture, I produced The American Street Dance Championship, which aired on Fox Sports Net. It was the first street dance competition to air on television, years before America’s Best Dance Crew.

But, in this business, sometimes Murphy’s Law comes into play, and you just have to roll with it. 9/11 hits and stops all my momentum. So, I would say my process was “Necessity.” I knew the street dance culture would explode, and I strongly felt somebody had to start showing it.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m going to flip this on you for the first question. I don’t believe I can set myself apart from others, especially in the entertainment business. I think that if you’re in this industry, for the most part, you’re passionate, creative, and believe in your project. Of course, it’s a matter of taste, and when it comes to creative choices, some people are tone-deaf. There’s an old saying about what is going to be a hit: “Nobody knows anything in this town.” Don’t believe me? Ask Tyler Perry about his first film. So, if I had to point out one thing that sets me apart from others, it would be my extreme enthusiasm for the projects I work on, whether they are for clients or mine.

I’m particularly proud of my daughter and other young people I work with. The enormous opportunities available to them are beyond exciting. Without sounding like a grandpa, I would sometimes say, “If I were your age, I would be like Dr. Frankenstein.” I’m constantly trying out the countless new tools to assist me in my creative vision today.

To get where I am professionally was and still is difficult because I’m never satisfied with the status quo. To overcome any challenges, whether seen or unforeseen, I try to stay as fluid as water and unpredictable. If there’s a crack, water will seep through. I believe in unlimited possibilities. No matter what the obstacle, there’s always a way around it or through it.

Some of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned, especially in my business, revolve around relationships, networking, and the importance of surrounding yourself with people smarter than you. Wardance Entertainment is a small boutique company, but we consistently deliver for our clients. The projects we have in development, without overstating, will surprise and change some views in this town.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Day 1: Explore Hollywood and SAG Museum

Morning: Hollywood Walk of Fame

Start our day by exploring the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame. See the stars of your favorite actors and entertainers.
Late Morning: Hollywood Hills Hike

Head to Runyon Canyon for a scenic hike with panoramic views of Los Angeles. It’s a great way to enjoy the beautiful weather and get a workout.

Afternoon: Lunch at Hollywood & Highland Center

Grab lunch at one of the restaurants at Hollywood & Highland Center, which is also home to the Dolby Theatre.
Early Afternoon: SAG-AFTRA Plaza and Museum

Visit the SAG-AFTRA Plaza and Museum. Explore the rich history of the Screen Actors Guild and the entertainment industry.
Evening: Sunset at Griffith Observatory

Head to Griffith Observatory to catch a breathtaking sunset over the city. It offers stunning views of the Hollywood Sign and the Los Angeles skyline.

Dinner: Sunset Boulevard

Choose one of the many dining options on Sunset Boulevard for a memorable dinner.

Day 2: Getty Museum, Cultural Exploration, and Live Music

Morning: Getty Center

Spend the morning at the Getty Center, exploring its impressive art collection, gardens, and architecture. Don’t forget to take in the scenic views of the city.
Afternoon: Lunch at Getty Center

Have lunch at one of the Getty Center’s on-site restaurants.
Late Afternoon: Museum Row

Visit the Miracle Mile area, known as Museum Row, where you can explore the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) and the Petersen Automotive Museum.
Evening: Live Music at The Troubadour

Head to The Troubadour, an iconic music venue on Santa Monica Boulevard. Enjoy live music in an intimate setting.
Night: Dinner at The Grove

After the live music, head to The Grove for dinner. It offers a variety of dining options and a lively atmosphere.

Day 3: Beach Day and Dancing

Morning: Santa Monica Pier

Spend the morning at the Santa Monica Pier. Enjoy the amusement park rides, stroll along the beach, and check out the Pacific Park.

Afternoon: Venice Beach

Head south to Venice Beach for its bohemian atmosphere, street performers, and iconic Venice Boardwalk.
Late Afternoon: Abbot Kinney Boulevard

Explore the trendy shops and cafes on Abbot Kinney Boulevard.
Evening: Dinner in Marina del Rey

Have dinner at a waterfront restaurant in Marina del Rey to enjoy the beautiful coastal views.

Night: Dancing at a Hollywood Club

Finish the trip with a night of dancing at one of Hollywood’s vibrant clubs. Some popular options include Avalon Hollywood, The Argyle, or Exchange LA.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I dedicate this shoutout to a man who has been like a father to me and without whom my life and career would not be possible: Don Kelley. In 1975, I met Don as a sixteen-year-old kid in Chicago. Don was the manager of the legendary DJ named Wolfman Jack, who hosted the live music TV show called Midnight Special. My street dance group was called The Puppets, and we sneaked into the show to meet Wolfman and get on the show. Of course, we got busted by security, but Don vouched for us, which surprised us. As fate would have it, Don had pulled a similar stunt in his youth to get in to see Frank Sinatra. Don and Wolfman decided to take us on tour and then to Canada to perform on The Wolfman Jack TV series. But two weeks before we were set to go on tour, I was shot twice by an envious gangbanger. Don insisted on taking us out of Chicago and became my legal guardian with permission from my mother. So, I owe my life and career to Don Kelley, the father of the century.

Website: https://www.wardanceentertainment.com

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_85S-P3vXt32ni4x62POSw